Guitar Care

Frequently Asked Questions: Guitar Care

Technical Care

I can’t find my truss rod

The one-way adjustable truss rod was implemented in 1985. The two-way truss rod was implemented in 2006. This rod is recessed further than the one-way rod and you will not see it. We recommend that the guitar be taken to an authorized Martin repair center to have adjustments made. Both the one-way and the two-way rods require a 5mm Allen wrench to make the adjustments. The two-way rod does not protrude and is not visible. To reach the two-way adjustable rod nut, use a 5 mm Allen wrench that has a bent leg that is 4 ½" long.

What is HPL?

HPL stands for high pressure laminate. It is a composite material made from paper and resin that is pressed at very high pressure. The surface will have a wood pattern (Mahogany, rosewood, Koa, etc) and a protective clear coating. It is not a wood veneer.

What is Black Richlite?

Black Richlite is a composite material that is made from paper and resin pressed at high pressure. Richlite is an FSC (Forest Stewardship Council).

How do I find the specifications for my particular Martin Guitar?

If you visit our website, you can use the search box at the top right-hand corner of the page. Be sure to type the model in exactly as it is printed inside the guitar. If the model is still active, you can use the search functions on the “Choosing Your Martin” tab on our website. You will be able to search by series, price, model, wood and by size. http://www.martinguitar.com/guitars/choosing/

Care & Feeding Guide

Guitar Care & Feeding Guide

Created to assist you in giving your Martin instrument the best possible care. It includes valuable information on humidity, temperature, storage, cleaning, tuning, and more. Download now.

Frequently Asked Questions: Registration/Warranty

Guitar Care

Why do I need to register my new Martin guitar?

Registration is necessary to obtain the Limited Lifetime Warranty for the original owner only.

Can the warranty on a Martin guitar be transferred to another owner?

No, the Limited Lifetime warranty is valid to the original, registered owner who purchased the guitar through an authorized Martin dealer only. It cannot be transferred.

How do I register my Martin guitar?

If the guitar is new, registration can be done through our website http://www.martinguitar.com Registration can also be completed by filling out and sending the warranty registration application that should be in the case pocket along with the booklet "Care and Feeding."

How do I know if I am registered for my guitar?

You can contact Customer Service (610-759-2837) with your serial number.

What do I do if my guitar needs repairs?

Please contact Customer Service (610-759-2837) to obtain a Return Authorization number and packing/shipping instructions. Do not ship the guitar without the Return Authorization number.

Frequently Asked Questions: Manufacture Date and Location

Manufacture Date and Location

Where is my Martin made?

Martin guitars are made in Nazareth PA, USA with the exception of the X Series (HPL) the Backpacker Series, Road Series, and the SO and S1 Uke which are made in our plant in Mexico.

How do I determine when my Martin guitar was made?

A Martin guitar will have the model designation and the serial number etched inside the instrument on the neck block. Use the serial number and the chart on our website to determine the year the guitar was manufactured. http://www.martinguitar.com/history/dating.html

Where can I find my serial number?

A Martin Guitar will have the model designation and the serial number etched on the neck block. To access this information, look in the soundhole of the guitar and look toward the neck.

Frequently Asked Questions: Technical

Guitar Care

I can’t find my truss rod

The one-way adjustable truss rod was implemented in 1985. The two-way truss rod was implemented in 2006. This rod is recessed further than the one-way rod and you will not see it. We recommend that the guitar be taken to an authorized Martin repair center to have adjustments made. Both the one-way and the two-way rods require a 5mm Allen wrench to make the adjustments. The two-way rod does not protrude and is not visible. To reach the two-way adjustable rod nut, use a 5 mm Allen wrench that has a bent leg that is 4 ½" long.

What is HPL?

HPL stands for high pressure laminate. It is a composite material made from paper and resin that is pressed at very high pressure. The surface will have a wood pattern (Mahogany, rosewood, Koa, etc) and a protective clear coating. It is not a wood veneer.

What is Black Richlite?

Black Richlite is a composite material that is made from paper and resin pressed at high pressure. Richlite is an FSC (Forest Stewardship Council).

How do I find the specifications for my particular Martin Guitar?

If you visit our website, you can use the search box at the top right-hand corner of the page. Be sure to type the model in exactly as it is printed inside the guitar. If the model is still active, you can use the search functions on the “Choosing Your Martin” tab on our website. You will be able to search by series, price, model, wood and by size. http://www.martinguitar.com/guitars/choosing/

Guitar Care & Feeding Guide

Guitar Care & Feeding Guide

Created to assist you in giving your Martin instrument the best possible care. It includes valuable information on humidity, temperature, storage, cleaning, tuning, and more. Download now.